When you visit Bat Trang Pottery Village, you have the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of ancient Vietnamese architecture, observe skilled artisans crafting intricate ceramic pieces, and even try your hand at creating your own masterpiece.
While exploring Hanoi, a visit to Bat Trang Pottery Village is highly recommended. As one of Vietnam’s major ceramic suppliers, it plays a crucial role in safeguarding the cultural heritage of the capital. Additionally, it serves as a popular tourist spot, drawing visitors seeking the serene and charming ambiance of an ancient craft village.
How old is Bat Trang Pottery Village?
Bat Trang Pottery Village: A traditional imprint in the heart of Hanoi
- Historical origins: Bat Trang Pottery Village, renowned for its rich ceramic tradition, is believed to have been established in the 14th or 15th century, although some historical accounts suggest its origins may date even earlier. According to family annals, the village’s inception coincided with King Ly Cong Uan’s relocation of the capital to Thang Long, present-day Hanoi. As the capital flourished, entrepreneurs and artisans from diverse regions flocked to Bat Trang to engage in commerce and craftsmanship. Taking advantage of the abundant white clay and water from the Red River, they began the production of pottery and ceramic goods.
Thăng Long ( 昇龍) is the former name of Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. It served as the imperial capital of Đại Việt during the periods of the Lý, Trần, Lê, Mạc, and Lê Trung Hưng dynasties (1010 – 1788). In colloquial terms, the name “Kẻ Chợ” in Nôm script is commonly used, and Western documents about Hanoi before the 19th century often refer to it as Cachao or Kecho
- Location: Situated on the banks of the Red River, in the Gia Lam district, Bat Trang Pottery Village is positioned approximately 14 kilometers from the heart of Hanoi. The village’s strategic location near the Red River has been instrumental in fostering its growth and facilitating the production of high-quality ceramics.
How to get to Bat Trang Pottery Village Vietnam?
- Bus: Taking the bus is a popular and cost-effective way to reach Bat Trang Pottery Village. Buses No. 47A and 47B, heading to the village, can be boarded at Long Bien bus stop on Yen Phu street, Ba Dinh district. The bus journey takes approximately 40 minutes, and the ticket price is 7,000 VND/person.
Bat Trang Pottery Village: A traditional imprint in the heart of Hanoi
- Other Means of Transportation:
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- Motorbike taxi, taxi, or private transportation are also available, but they will cost more than the bus option.
- If you choose to travel independently, you can use Google Maps on your cell phone or computer to find the best route. From your address, navigate towards Chuong Duong Bridge, Vinh Tuy Bridge, or Thanh Tri Bridge, and then turn right to follow the path along the Red River dike.
- Continue until you see the signboard “Bat Trang Pottery Village,” which will indicate that you have arrived at your destination.
- Ship: For a unique experience, tourists can opt for a ship, particularly suitable for those interested in river tours in Hanoi. However, this transportation option is available only on weekends, and the ticket price is relatively higher, ranging from 350,000 to 400,000 VND/person. This choice not only provides transportation but also offers a chance to appreciate the picturesque riverscape along the journey to Bat Trang Pottery Village.
Top 5 things to do on your Bat Trang Pottery Village tour
Bat Trang Pottery Village presents a variety of captivating activities suitable for visitors of all ages. Explore the charm of this ancient craft village with these five essential activities:
Wander around Bat Trang Ancient Village
Vietnamese ceramics Bat Trang Pottery Village: A traditional imprint in the heart of Hanoi
When you arrive at Bat Trang Pottery Village, take the opportunity to marvel at its distinctive architecture. Roam through this enchanting village on buffalo-drawn carts, immersing yourself in the serene ambiance of a traditional craft village.
Make sure to visit the Van Van ancient house, a remarkable 200-year-old architectural gem located at the far end of the village. The magnificent structure of this historic house captivates countless tourists. Inside, you can appreciate a diverse collection of ancient ceramic artifacts, including vases and pots dating back to the 15th century, carefully handed down and preserved through many generations.
Keep in mind that this antique house welcomes visitors daily from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm.
Get hands-on pottery-making experience
Bat Trang Pottery Village: A traditional imprint in the heart of Hanoi
Immerse yourself in the ancient craft of pottery by participating in the traditional pottery-making process – an activity that promises a unique and unforgettable experience, transforming you into a genuine pottery craftsman. For a modest fee ranging from 30,000 to 50,000 VND, you’ll be provided with a pottery turntable and a block of moist clay, giving you the freedom to shape and mold it into your desired form.
Don’t worry if your initial attempts result in whimsical and amusing creations; it’s all part of the learning process. The skilled artisans in Bat Trang Pottery Village are readily available to offer guidance and assistance in refining your ceramic masterpiece.
After the molding phase, your creation undergoes a 30-minute drying period, following which you can unleash your creativity in decorating it with an array of vibrant colors. To ensure longevity, a final sheen coating is applied, transforming your handcrafted pottery into a durable and unique work of art.
Go shopping at Bat Trang Pottery market
Bat Trang Pottery Village: A traditional imprint in the heart of Hanoi
For those venturing to Bat Trang Pottery Village, a visit to the Bat Trang Pottery market is essential. Spanning an expansive area of approximately 6,000 square meters, the market is segmented into small stalls showcasing a diverse array of exquisite ceramic items. The offerings range from everyday household essentials and charming ornaments to intricate pottery like worship items, rockery miniatures, and handmade ceramic pictures.
If you seek to bring home refined ceramic products, Bat Trang Pottery market is the ideal destination. Here, the prices are notably more affordable compared to shops in downtown Hanoi, providing an excellent opportunity to acquire quality ceramics at a reasonable cost.
Visit Bat Trang Pottery museum
Bat Trang Pottery Village: A traditional imprint in the heart of Hanoi
For those eager to delve deeper into the cultural and historical richness of Bat Trang Pottery Village, a visit to the Bat Trang Pottery Museum proves to be an ideal destination. This museum is an integral part of the Centre for the Quintessence of Vietnamese Craft Villages.
Comprising seven funnel-shaped buildings adorned with intricately carved, multi-layered patterns on the outer walls, the museum stands as an extraordinary architectural masterpiece. The design draws inspiration from the pottery turntable, a distinctive tool utilized by ceramic artisans. Within the museum’s walls, you’ll encounter a diverse collection of valuable and artistically crafted ceramic items, spanning the extensive history of Bat Trang Pottery Village.
Enjoy squid soup with bamboo shoots
VietNam Ceramics Bat Trang Pottery Village: A traditional imprint in the heart of Hanoi
While Bat Trang Pottery Village is renowned for its ceramic treasures, hidden within its charm lies a culinary gem – the delightful squid soup with bamboo shoots. This traditional dish features dried squid and bamboo shoots as its primary ingredients. Infused with a naturally sweet flavor, the broth is enriched with chicken broth, dried shrimp, and other complementary elements.
With roots tracing back to being a favored meal among royalty, this exquisite dish stands as a testament to the village’s rich culinary heritage. If you find yourself in Bat Trang, seize the opportunity to savor the unique flavors of this special soup.
How much is a ticket to Bat Trang Pottery village?
Embarking on a captivating journey around Hanoi, Bat Trang Pottery Village promises a unique encounter with Vietnamese ceramics in the backdrop of this ancient village. It’s essential to note that while entry to the ancient village itself is free, various activities, as detailed above, may incur associated fees.
Beyond the allure of Bat Trang Pottery Village, Hanoi boasts numerous other tourist attractions worth exploring. From the serene Hoan Kiem Lake and the historic Temple of Literature to the scenic West Lake and the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, the city offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to visit VinKE and Vinpearl Aquarium, located in Vincom Mega Mall Times City, both acclaimed as captivating attractions for young families and teenagers in the city.
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